FIRE AT GREY.

Hokitika Guardian, 30 May 1927, Page 1

FIRE AT GREY.

GRKYAIOIJTII, Afay 30.

An outbreak of lire occurred at the rear of Gage’s Tearooms, Tainui Street, about eleven o’clock last niglit, resulting in considerable damage being done to the remises.

The Eire Brigade turned out smartly, and a line of liose was run out from the hydrant in Alackay Street, and soon brought to play on the seat of the outbreak, the flames being subdued within a few minutes. The ringing of the fire bell resulted in. a large number of people gathering in the vicinity of the building. At first it seemed likely that the entire building would be involved, and but for the quickness of the Brigade in responding to 'tlic alarm, the liro would no doubt have done considerably more damage, and would possibly have threatened, the Dominion Hotel, or tho shop on tlvc other side.

Investigations disclosed that tho lire started in tho vicinity of an electric light switch in the pantry at the rear of the tearoom, on the ground floor. The flames had worked through the dctoPvay to a small lift well adjoining same used for sending refreshments to the upper story. This had apparently served as a sort of chimney, and enabled the flames to spread quickly to the next floor. The woodwork of the pantry was severely charred and a portion of the ceiling and walls of the tearooms were badly scorched; but there was no structural damage. Tlic upper storey suffered mostly from the effects of the water used in extinguishing tho flames. The building is owned by Air Archibald Williams, and is occupied by Afr J. Gage and Son. Air Gage took over the tearooms and confectionery business about six months ago from Air E. V. Arthur..